Author: Shalem John

The Book of Nehemiah is one of the most compelling narratives in the Hebrew Bible, chronicling the restoration of Jerusalem’s walls and the spiritual renewal of the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian exile. As the last of the historical books in the Old Testament, Nehemiah serves as both a continuation and conclusion to the post-exilic history that began in Ezra. Together, Ezra and Nehemiah depict the fulfilment of God’s promises to restore His people to their land after seventy years of captivity, highlighting themes of faith, leadership, prayer, perseverance, and covenant renewal. Authorship and Date Traditionally, the Book…

The Book of 1 Samuel marks a pivotal turning point in the history of Israel, bridging the gap between the chaotic period of the Judges and the establishment of the monarchy. It is the first part of a larger historical narrative that continues through 2 Samuel and 1–2 Kings, often referred to collectively as the “Deuteronomistic History.” This collection recounts Israel’s transformation from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized kingdom under divine guidance. Thematically, 1 Samuel explores the complex relationship between divine sovereignty and human leadership, emphasizing God’s ultimate authority over Israel’s destiny. Authorship and Composition Traditionally, Jewish…

To get from her home in Bethlehem to her college and workplace in Abu Dis, east of Jerusalem, Christine Awad had to pass through the only Israeli checkpoint connecting the northern and southern parts of the West Bank. Without this barrier and the traffic it forms, the drive would take 20 minutes. With it and the increased restrictions after the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas-led militants, Awad’s commute every morning and evening until the end of her employment in June could stretch into a two-hour journey. Every time she reached the checkpoint—one of the West Bank’s 849…